The Rest Is Classified
Goalhanger
Enter the secretive world of spies, espionage, and covert operations. Hosted by former CIA analyst turned spy novelist, David McCloskey, and veteran security correspondent, Gordon Corera, this podcast unravels real-life spy stories, intelligence secrets, and the hidden power struggles shaping global events. From Cold War espionage to modern-day intelligence agencies like the CIA, MI6, and Mossad, explore the world of double agents, classified missions, and the shadowy figures who operate in them. Whether you're a true crime addict, a thriller fan, or fascinated by spy stories, this is the show for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
May 12, 2026 • 17min
The CIA's Biggest Intelligence Failure with Michael Morrell
Michael Morrell, former acting CIA director with 33 years of service, offers an insider perspective on Iraq WMD controversy. He discusses how intelligence biases and source problems shaped assessments. He recalls White House reactions, resource constraints, and parallels between Iraq and later conflicts. Short, candid reflections from someone who was in the room where it happened.
40 snips
May 10, 2026 • 57min
155. The Road to Iraq: How 9/11 Changed Everything (Ep 3)
A deep dive into how 9/11 reshaped Western policy and cleared a political path toward Iraq. They trace pre-9/11 regime-change ambitions within the Bush team and CIA covert plans. The conversation covers rising WMD fears, anthrax panic, and how WMD became the public justification. They also unpack Tony Blair’s role, MI6-CIA ties, and the push to craft a persuasive legal and political case.
74 snips
May 6, 2026 • 51min
154. The Road to Iraq: Saddam Hussein's Fatal Error (Ep 2)
A deep dive into Saddam Hussein’s secret destruction of chemical and biological stockpiles and why he kept it hidden. The story of Hussein Kamal’s defection, shocking documents found on a chicken farm, and his eventual return. How inspections doubled as intelligence gathering and how thin sources warped Western assumptions. The lead-up to 1998’s breakdown in cooperation and the shifting US focus after 2001.
40 snips
May 5, 2026 • 17min
Alastair Campbell on the Iraq War
Alastair Campbell, former communications director for Tony Blair and political strategist, reflects on the run‑up to the Iraq invasion. He discusses the controversy around the WMD dossier, his role in transatlantic pressure, and how 9/11 reshaped priorities and strategy. Short, candid recollections and behind‑the‑scenes political manoeuvres drive the conversation.
86 snips
May 3, 2026 • 1h 4min
153. The Road to Iraq: Weapons of Mass Destruction (Ep 1)
A fast-paced dive into how Saddam rose to power and the brutal methods he used to stay in control. They trace the Iran–Iraq war, Iraqi nuclear and chemical programs, and the 1980s US–Iraq covert ties. The show examines the Gulf War, the invasion of Kuwait, and how failed intelligence and political pressure shaped the WMD narrative.
32 snips
Apr 29, 2026 • 1h 5min
152. Britain’s Man Inside the IRA: Unmasking the Traitor (Ep 4)
A deep dive into the unmasking of a high-level mole inside the IRA and the fallout that followed. They explore secret recordings, media exposés, and the legal and moral battles around state secrecy. The story follows police inquiry Operation Kenova, prosecution struggles, and debates over oversight, collusion and whether handlers’ decisions cost more lives than they saved.
37 snips
Apr 26, 2026 • 52min
151. Britain’s Man Inside the IRA: From Spy to Executioner (Ep 3)
A deep dive into an undercover agent who rose to run brutal internal security operations. They explore how handlers stayed close while atrocities happened and whether killings were tolerated to protect intelligence. The story follows informers who were shielded, exposed, or used as bait. It traces the agent’s rise, slips, and the paranoia that finally undid him.
60 snips
Apr 23, 2026 • 58min
Why Do Russian Spies Interfere in Global Politics?
Tom Bradby, novelist, screenwriter and former ITV political editor, joins to unpack Russian interference in Europe and beyond. He traces murky operations in Hungary, discusses risks to NATO and intelligence-sharing, and contrasts Russian political meddling with China’s tactics. Short, sharp conversations about spies, money and modern geopolitics.
39 snips
Apr 22, 2026 • 48min
150. Britain’s Man Inside the IRA: How to Run a Killer (Ep 2)
A deep dive into how British security services recruited and handled informers during The Troubles. They probe the creation and operations of the FRU and the rise of a high-value agent nicknamed Stakeknife. The podcast traces tradecraft, secret payments, compartmentalised units and the grim choices when intelligence value clashed with lives at risk.
49 snips
Apr 19, 2026 • 45min
149. Britain’s Man Inside the IRA: The Truth Behind Stakeknife (Ep 1)
A four-part spy series kicks off by probing the man behind the codename Stakeknife and why he joined the IRA. The hosts map Northern Ireland’s conflict, sectarian divides, and security force tactics. They trace Freddy Scappaticci’s life from youth to internment and his rise in IRA internal security. The episode ends with the startling claim that he was a British agent.
